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Checkmating: meaning, definitions and examples

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checkmating

 

[ ˈtʃeɪkˌmeɪtɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

chess move

Checkmating refers to the action of placing the opposing king in check, wherein it cannot make any legal move to escape the threat of capture. This situation represents the end of a chess game, resulting in a victory for the checkmating player. The term is derived from the phrase 'Shah Mat' in Persian, which translates to 'the king is dead.' As such, checkmate is the ultimate goal in chess, showcasing strategic skill and foresight. It represents a culmination of tactical maneuvers performed throughout the game.

Synonyms

checkmate, defeat, overwhelm

Examples of usage

  • He checkmated his opponent in just ten moves.
  • After several exchanges, she finally managed to checkmate him.
  • The checkmating sequence was brilliant and unexpected.
  • He was proud to have checkmated a grandmaster.

Translations

Translations of the word "checkmating" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mate

🇮🇳 चेकमेट

🇩🇪 Schachmatt

🇮🇩 skakmat

🇺🇦 мат

🇵🇱 mat

🇯🇵 チェックメイト

🇫🇷 échec et mat

🇪🇸 jaque mate

🇹🇷 şah mat

🇰🇷 체크메이트

🇸🇦 مات

🇨🇿 šach mat

🇸🇰 mat

🇨🇳 将死

🇸🇮 šah-mat

🇮🇸 skákmat

🇰🇿 мат

🇬🇪 შახმატი

🇦🇿 şah mat

🇲🇽 jaque mate

Etymology

The word 'checkmate' originates from the Persian phrase 'Shah Mat,' which translates to 'the king is dead.' The term was introduced to Europe via Arabic-speaking cultures during the Middle Ages through the spread of chess, a game believed to have been derived in India. The game's rules and terms were gradually adapted by European players, leading to the incorporation of 'check' and 'mate' into English. Over the centuries, the concept of checkmate has transcended its original chess context, symbolizing defeat more broadly. Today, it is employed in various scenarios to illustrate a point where no further moves are available, mirroring its strategic use in chess. The evolution of the word reflects the historical journey of chess itself and its influence across different cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,154, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.